Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Malignant mesothelioma affects the linings of internal organs. The primary risk factor is asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in a variety of jobs until it was banned in the 1970s. Miners, construction workers shipyard workers, factory employees, and veterans are at greatest risk of exposure.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the protective linings that protect different organs of the body called the mesothelium. The most common malignant mesothelioma can be found in the lungs and abdomen. However, it can also form in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or in the testes. About 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. The exposure to asbestos is the sole known mesothelioma causing factor. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was once a popular choice in American industries due to its cheap and fire-resistant. It was used to build homes, buildings and automobiles. Workers on these projects may have been exposed to asbestos as workers cut or removed the materials. Exposure to these materials could lead to mesothelioma many decades after exposure.
It can be difficult to determine mesothelioma because the first symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses like lung cancer. These early symptoms can include breathing problems, chest pain and a persistent cough. As the disease progresses more serious symptoms, such as fatigue and weight loss, may develop.
There are four kinds of mesothelioma and each type has a different prognosis. The most common form is pleural. It affects linings of the lungs (pleura) and chest cavity. Other mesothelioma types are peritoneal, pericardial or testicular. Each kind has its own distinct symptoms, but all are characterized by an inflamed and malignant tumor that encircles vital organs and interferes with their function.
If a doctor suspects mesothelioma, they will order a biopsies to determine if cancerous cells are present. A sample of the affected area is examined under a microscopy. If cancer is found the patient can be diagnosed with either epithelioid or mesothelioma sarcomatoid. Epithelioid mesothelioma makes up 70% to 80percent of mesothelioma cases and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma is only 10 percent of mesothelioma patients and has a lower prognosis.
Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are at higher risk of developing mesothelioma more than others. People who work in asbestos or military environments, veterans of the military and those with mesothelioma-related history are among the groups. In addition, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at an increased risk of developing mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms
Mesothelioma develops in the tissues that line and protect organs inside including the lung (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum). The likelihood of developing mesothelioma rises when asbestos is exposed at work. Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most prevalent mesothelioma. It affects the lining in the lungs.
Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium. As time passes, cells become damaged and genetic changes result in them becoming malignant. Tumors form. The symptoms of mesothelioma can differ, but common ones are coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include nausea, fatigue, weight loss, and trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer, and it can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first symptoms to appear. Often, the symptoms are confused with other diseases such as pneumonia or the flu. Mesothelioma can be difficult to diagnose because it is not common and its symptoms are similar to other illnesses.
Typically doctors do not link mesothelioma and asbestos exposure until the patient has reached the mesothelioma's final stages. At this point the doctor will typically inquire about the patient's or her previous exposure to asbestos and then perform a physical examination. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and determine if there are other diseases.
The physician may also recommend scans for blood and imaging for the abdomen or chest. The imaging tests could include CT scans, MRI, PET scans, or X-rays. The doctor may also order an examination to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine the type of mesothelioma a patient has. The biopsy could be an exploratory procedure or a minimally invasive procedure.
During the biopsy, doctors remove small samples of mesothelium tissue and search for mesothelioma cell. The mesothelioma cells can be either epithelioid, biphasic or sarcomatoid, with the first two types making up the majority of diagnoses. The sarcomatoid form is less responsive to treatments and has a shorter lifespan. The epithelioid is more responsive to treatment and has a much better prognosis. The biphasic type is a combination of the first two types and accounts for 30% to 40% of all mesothelioma diagnoses.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma typically occurs in the linings of the lungs and abdomen. It can also occur in the linings of the heart or pericardium. Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in around 3,000 people. It is the only known cancer caused by asbestos. It takes between 20 and 50 years for mesothelioma development after exposure.
Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with heat-resistant properties. For decades it was employed in many American industries because it was inexpensive and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative in the construction industry where it was employed as a fireproofing and insulating material in ships, buildings cars and many other products. Construction workers were the most at risk of asbestos exposure.
Workers who worked with asbestos were exposed to sharp fibers that can cause serious health issues. The fibers are easily be swallowed or inhaled and irritate the mesothelium. Over time the irritation causes scar tissue to build up which can lead to tumors.
Different mesothelioma types affect different areas of the body. The most common type of mesothelioma affects the lining in the chest cavity and lungs. It is the most prevalent type of mesothelioma and may cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma may also affect the lining in the abdominal cavity causing symptoms like swelling, pain or digestive issues. It can also affect the heart's lining which can cause unusual symptoms like chest pain or palpitations.
Mesothelioma symptoms are often confused with other ailments. It is important to see your doctor when any of these symptoms are present. Your doctor will perform physical examinations and may order imaging tests to check for abnormalities. These tests may include CT scans, MRIs and PET scans. These tests will allow doctors to determine if mesothelioma related changes are present within your body.
Although mesothelioma is not contagious however, relatives of those who have been exposed to asbestos are at a greater risk for developing the disease. This is due to the fact that those who were exposed to asbestos often brought asbestos fibers home on their clothes hair, skin, and. They could then breathe in the asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this kind of asbestos exposure secondhand.
Treatment for Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that begins when cells in the human body begin to grow in uncontrolled ways. They can also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form.
eugene asbestos law firm to asbestos is the most significant mesothelioma risk factor. Asbestos is a fibrous material that was widely used in construction and other industries before being banned in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibers are ingested and inhaled. They may then get lodged within the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is more prevalent in those who have been exposed to asbestos. This includes those who are responsible for removing or handling it. However, blue-collar workers and even relatives of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers could bring asbestos fibers back to their homes on their clothes. Family members could breathe in asbestos fibers as they clean their clothes.
Although mesothelioma is not a common occurrence It is still important to see a physician for any symptoms that could be linked to the condition. They may include chest pain, difficulty breathing or an ongoing cough. The doctor will inquire about your medical background and when you may have been exposed to asbestos. They'll also perform a physical exam and chest X-ray to check for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests include computed-tomography scan (CT), positron-emission tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.
Your doctor will discuss the options for treatment with you if mesothelioma is diagnosed. These may include chemo, surgery or radiation. The mesothelioma type and how far it has advanced will determine what treatments are available.
Although there isn't a cure for mesothelioma but the correct treatment can improve the chance of surviving. Get your free Mesothelioma Guide to know more about the disease and the treatment options available. There is no obligation, we'll mail it to you at no cost. You can also call us at 1-888-314-6906. A nurse is on hand to answer any questions you may have. A lawyer can be contacted for a free consultation about filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We are committed to helping you and your family members receive the amount of compensation you deserve.